Antimicrobial stewardship: community pharmacists’ antibiotic dispensing practices, knowledge, and perception regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance

Abstract Objectives Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health threat, and the inappropriate use of antibiotics is a key driver of this phenomenon. Community pharmacists play a crucial role in the responsible use of antibiotics and in promoting antimicrobial stewardship. This study assessed the knowledge and perception of community pharmacists regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance as well as their antibiotic dispensing practices. Methods This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 126 community pharmacists in Ibadan, with the use of a self-administered paper questionnaire. The questionnaire contained Likert-type 8-item knowledge, 5-item perception, and 18-item dispensing practice scales. The scaled score was graded as adequate and inadequate knowledge, and good or poor dispensing practices. Data were analysed using SPSS (version 25) and results are presented using descriptive statistics. Key findings Adequate knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance was demonstrated by 89 (70.6%) of the community pharmacists. However, 60 (47.6%) reported that antibiotics were not classified as prescription-only medications in Nigeria and that there were no regulations governing their sale and dispensing. Majority, 118 (93.7%), agreed that it is important to conduct culture and sensitivity tests before prescribing antibiotics to patients. Only 21 (16.7%) of the respondents agreed that pharmacists should always dispense antibiotics only when a prescription is presented. In all, 115 (91.3%) community pharmacists had poor antibiotic dispensing practices. Conclusion Most of the community pharmacists possess adequate knowledge of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance; nonetheless, a significant portion of them exhibits poor antibiotic dispensing practices.